Hrid Lake
Hrid Lake (Hridsko jezero) is a “lake of happiness” hidden at 1,970 meters in Montenegro’s Prokletije National Park, near Plav and Gusinje. This untouched area offers pure nature and wild beauty, with no human settlements nearby.
Location and Landscape
Hrid Lake is located on the northwest side of Prokletije National Park, in the municipality of Plav, northern Montenegro. It is easily accessible from the towns of Plav and Gusinje. Nature is still untouched in this part of the ‘Accursed Mountains’ (‘proklet’ means accursed). Indeed, you can encounter some nature-loving hikers, but there are no human settlements in the wide surroundings. Pure nature and wild beauty!
Hrid Lake is set in a spectacular landscape marked by high pine trees, bleached tree trunks, and interesting rock formations. Bedded in the intensive scent of pine trees, nature lovers and those seeking peace can find a place to relax and dream. Near the lake, you can find a valley with lush green meadows inviting you to relax.
A ‘craggy rock’ is called ‘hrid’ in Montenegrin, and the Lake is hidden under the steep cliffs of Hridski Krš (2358 m) and Mount Bogićevića (2374 m).
Characteristics and Legends
Hrid Lake is one of the highest altitude lakes in Montenegro, called “Gorske oči.” The lake is of glacial foundation and known as a “Pearl of Prokletije” among people.
It is 300 meters long and 160 meters wide, and the depth depends on the season, but in general, it is 5-6m. In summer, it becomes smaller, but the rest of the time, it increases, especially when it rains and snow melts. Frozen in winter, Hrid Lake isn’t Montenegro’s largest lake. However, what it lacks in size, it apparently makes up for in terms of the “luck” factor, and it’s stunning setting among stands of pine trees and spruce.
Hrid Lake (Hridsko Jezero) is known in Montenegro as the “lake of happiness.” There is a legend about forest fairies hiding from humans and bathing in Hrid Lake. Even nowadays, those who decide to go for a swim believe it brings health and luck in marriage. Throw a coin or a piece of jewelry—a ring, bracelet, chain—into the lake and make a wish. Maybe it will soon come true!
Accessibility and Hiking
The lake is situated on the international hiking trail Peaks of the Balkans, which is 192 kilometers long and passes through Montenegro, Kosovo, and Albania. Not too far from the lake is the ‘triple border’ peak Tromeđa, where borders of all three countries connect in the same spot, which is very interesting to hikers.